Under the U.S. Constitution and Title VII of the U.S. Code, racial discrimination is prohibited in Minnesota. Employers are barred according to theses laws from using race as a basis for hiring, recruitment, setting wage levels, or granting promotions.

What Must Be Proven in a Discrimination Claim?

Before taking their discrimination claim to court, an employee must file their claim with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC is the federal agency that has authority to investigate any claims of discrimination in the workplace. To prove racial discrimination, an employer must treat an employee adversely than co-workers who are of a different race or nationality.

To be able to prove a claim of racial discrimination, the Fergus Falls plaintiff further needs to prove that the employer had an intent to discriminate, and that the discriminatory action was based on race. The employer's intent can often be shown by showing that other people of different races were treated preferentially.

How Can a Fergus Falls Lawyer Help with My Claim?

In some cases also, recorded statements made by the employer about racial issues can be used to prove intent. In this area of litigation, procedural laws will vary considerably depending on where the claim is filed, and a Fergus Falls attorney will be knowledgeable of the requirements for your particular location. Furthermore, a Minnesota attorney can assist you when you file your claim with the EEOC, and they may be able to help you obtain other kinds of relief during the time period when your case is pending.